Johannesburg:The Gauteng Provincial Government has announced significant progress in its efforts to tackle gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) by completing 21 out of 67 directives and making strides on another 38.
According to South African Government News Agency, the update was provided by Premier Panyaza Lesufi, approximately 33 days into a 90-day period mandated by President Cyril Ramaphosa. The President had called for urgent action to resolve the GBVF crisis during a national address on September 29, outlining key directives such as resolving outstanding cases of serious offences against women and children, clearing forensic lab backlogs, conducting municipal safety audits, and reducing alcohol-related violence.
In response, the Gauteng Provincial Government developed a Provincial Implementation Plan that includes an additional focus on strengthening survivor support services. Eight directives have yet to be initiated, but four previously stalled directives have progressed since mid-October. A weekly tracking system is in place to ensure accountability across different government levels.
Efforts to improve GBVF case handling include the recovery of crime kits and submission for forensic processing. The province aims to reduce forensic waiting lists and enhance compliance with police procedures. Key actions include the establishment of an Identification Task Team for digital fingerprint audits and securing priority DNA samples.
Municipal safety initiatives have also reported progress, with tasks completed in several districts and safety standards met in Johannesburg, Tshwane, and Ekurhuleni. Safety audits are nearing completion, and urgent hazards identified will be addressed promptly.
To combat alcohol-related violence, the province has conducted thousands of liquor outlet inspections, closed non-compliant outlets, and begun strategic enforcement operations. Inputs for the proposed Liquor Bill have been submitted, with specialized training slated for November.
Support for survivors has been expanded, with increased shelter capacity and psychosocial services. Technical improvements have been made to safety applications, and partnerships with civil society continue to be strengthened.
Despite these advancements, the provincial government acknowledges ongoing challenges, particularly in forensic backlog resolution and municipal safety enhancements. It remains committed to ensuring justice and protection for women and children through transparent, coordinated efforts.